What new homeowners need to know about their roof

So, it’s a new year and now that you are the actual owner of the roof over your head (congratulations by the way!), it’s a good idea to start learning about the basic roofing terms and maintenance necessities just as you are doing with every other major system in your home. Here are 3 important things every new homeowner should know about the roofing system of their new home:

The basic roofing terminology:

As a homeowner it’s important to understand common terms and concepts when it comes to roofing, especially when discussing plans or trying to communicate a problem concerning your roof with your roofing contractor. The following roofing terms are some examples of components you should familiarize yourself with:

Deck sheathing: Layer of protection underneath the shingles and outer membrane layers covering the rafters; usually made of plywood.

Eave: the overhanding edges on the face of the wall which project beyond the building to throw water off the walls; often used as a decorative elements as well.

Fascia: horizontal decorative board that carries the gutter mounted where the roof meets the outer walls of the house.

Outer layer: The primary layer protecting your home against the elements, this is what people see from the street and offers curbside appeal to your home.

Rafter: the various slopped boards which form the structure of the roof and support the sheathing, running from the peak of the roof down to the eaves; there are multiple patterns for laying rafters when constructing a roof.

Avoid damage from weather-related problems with insulation and ventilation

Whether it be from large gusts of wind, rain and hail, or intense heat from the summer sun, your roof needs to be able to withstand the stress from the everyday elements. Proper insulation and ventilation are an absolute necessity when it comes to protecting your roof and home from weather-related damage, as both ventilation and insulation help to regulate the temperature and moisture levels in the attic.

Additionally, proper ventilation helps to improve the longevity of your roof by removing the moisture-laden air trapped in the attic that can cause damage to the shingles over time. Both ventilation and insulation systems also help to reduce the build up of mold, as well as improve the efficiency of your HVAC system throughout the year.

Regular inspections and maintenance appointments are key to roof longevity

Just as you have your car checked and tuned-up periodically to keep it running smooth and maintain it’s efficiency and safety, so too should you have your roof routinely checked by a professional roofing contractor with regular inspections and maintenance calls. Because while in some instances you can tell if there’s a problem with your roof from the ground or by going in your attic, a professional roofer knows exactly which signs to look for when assessing a roofing system for damage or potential problems.

As a new homeowner, you want to do everything you can to protect your investment and since the roof is one of the main components protecting your home, by taking the time to maintain your roof, you are ensuring the longevity of your home as well!